largecaliber

Large caliber is a term used to describe firearms and ammunition whose bore diameter is significantly larger than typical small-arms rounds. Context determines the practical threshold: in small arms, calibers above roughly 12.7 mm (0.50 inch) are often regarded as large caliber; in artillery and anti-aircraft systems, calibers above 20 mm are usually treated as large caliber. The term covers weapons ranging from heavy machine guns and autocannons to tank guns and field artillery.

Caliber size is closely tied to energy and projectile payload. Large-caliber rounds generally deliver higher muzzle energy, greater armor penetration, and the capacity to carry heavier explosive or incendiary charges. They may use armor-piercing, high-explosive, or sabot-based projectiles, and can employ fin stabilization or deformations depending on the system.

Typical roles include anti-material and anti-armor missions, air defense, naval, and infantry support. Close-in anti-aircraft autocannons, mobile anti-material rifles, and tank and gun systems illustrate the range of platforms. The shift toward advanced composite materials and specialized penetrators has improved effectiveness while addressing recoil and logistics challenges.

Historical development: The search for greater range and destructive power drove incremental increases in caliber from early machine guns to modern autocannons and artillery. Notable examples include the .50 BMG (12.7×99 mm), 14.5×114 mm, 20 mm autocannons, and larger tank and artillery firearms. In contemporary armed forces, large caliber systems remain central to air defense, armored warfare, and long-range artillery.

Regulation and logistics: Large-caliber weapons require substantial support in terms of munitions supply, maintenance, and targeting systems. They are subject to export controls and international law on weapons, with different regimes governing civilian possession, military use, and research. In civilian or historical contexts, "large caliber" may refer to sporting or antique firearms with larger bore sizes.